Given below are two statements.

Statement I: Focus discussion is part of formative research.

Statement II: Formative research can be both qualitative and quantitative.

In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below

The correct option is Both Statement I and Statement II are true.

Explanation:

Analysis of Statement I:
Formative research is conducted during the early stages of planning, design, or implementation of a project or program. Its primary goal is to gather insights and understand the needs, behaviors, and characteristics of the target population. Focus group discussions (FGDs) are a widely accepted qualitative research method used in this phase to explore opinions, test concepts, and gather diverse perspectives. Therefore, Statement I is true.

Analysis of Statement II:
While formative research heavily relies on qualitative techniques (like interviews and focus groups) to delve into the "why" and "how" of issues, it also utilizes quantitative methods (such as surveys, structured questionnaires, and demographic analyses) to measure variables, establish baselines, and determine the scale of specific issues. Hence, formative research can be both qualitative and quantitative. Therefore, Statement II is true.

Conclusion: Since both statements are correct, the correct choice is that both Statement I and Statement II are true.